I’m Going Back To Old Kentucky #218

From October 1, 2010 through to the end of September 2011, we will, each day, celebrate the life of Bill Monroe by sharing information about him and those people who are associated with his life and music career. This information will include births and deaths; recording sessions; single, LP and CD release dates; and other interesting tidbits. Richard F. Thompson is responsible for the research and compilation of this information. We invite readers to share any tidbits, photos or memories you would like us to include.

• May 6, 1983 Bill Monroe and the Blue Grass Boys headed a strong cast at the First Annual ‘May On The Mountain’ Bluegrass Festival on the occasion of the grand opening of the Louvin Brothers’ Music Park, Henagar, Alabama.
• May 6, 1985 Recording session –  During an afternoon session at the Sound Stage Studio Bill Monroe and the Country Gentlemen recorded Lord, Protect My Soul. Also working at the session were Wayne Lewis [guitar], Blake Williams [banjo], ‘Tater’ Tate [bass] and Glen Duncan [fiddle] along with Charlie Waller [guitar and lead vocals], Jimmy Gaudreau [mandolin and baritone vocals] and Bill Yates [bass vocals]. Later in the day Bill Monroe and Mac Wiseman recorded Travelin’ This Lonesome Road. Lewis, Williams, Tate and Duncan assisted along with Wiseman, who sang lead and played guitar. The producer at both sessions was Emory Gordy, Jr. *
• May 6, 1997 Bill Monroe was inducted into the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame as part of the early influence category. * *

* Both these recordings are included on the Bill Monroe and Stars of the Bluegrass Hall of Fame album (MCA-5625), which was released on August 19, 1985.

** Ricky Skaggs and Emmylou Harris were Monroe’s presenters.

With Bill Monroe’s induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame (in 1970), the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame (1971) and the International Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame (1991) his induction into the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame makes him unique.